"MANO PO"

 In every culture, different traditions and norms are being performed by its people. Every culture has different ways of showing respect to others, especially to the elderly. Koreans, Japanese, and even Chinese people show respect towards their elders by doing the 90-degree bow. And so, here in the Philippines, we also have our unique tradition of showing our love and respect towards our elders.

Pagmamano is a common hand gesture in the Philippines that is done by young people to honor the elders or as a sign of respect. The gesture is done by gently pressing the right hand of the elder person to the young person’s forehead. Normally, when entering an older relative's home or upon meeting them, the younger person should request the right hand of the elder person and perform the "pagmamano" as an honored gesture.

This custom or tradition is said to have started when the Philippines was occupied by Spanish colonization. Therefore, the natives learned to kiss the hands of the Catholic priests as a sign of respect as they converted to Christianity. It was practiced and adopted by Filipino ancestors over time and has since developed into a custom or tradition as a way to show respect for parents and elders. The blessings of the parents are always sought after in the Filipino culture because it is thought that they will bring success and protection. 

Due to us being known as family-oriented, this tradition is still strictly followed by many Filipino families despite being a very old custom. And through this simple gesture or act, we are able to completely show our love and respect for the elders as we honor their existence.